6 Eyeliner Designs Every Woman Should Try

Every woman loves to experiment with new lipstick colors, nail polish shades, and blushes, but how often do you mix up the look of your eyeliner? Many people don’t realize that eyeliner is an extremely versatile makeup component, and that there are countless style variations beyond the standard cat eye. Instead of opting for your usual black line, break out of your comfort zone by testing out a new eyeliner design. Whether it be using a bright color or applying liner to a different part of your eye, you’ll be astonished at what a difference these simple eyeliner changes can make to your face!

1. The white-lined cat eye

Try out this white-lined cat eye. | Monica Schipper/Getty Images

This look captured the attention of beauty bloggers around the world when it debuted backstage at The Blonds fashion show during February 2015. This simple take on a traditional cat eye packs a huge punch. The key is to apply black liquid liner along your top lids, gradually thickening the line as you reach the outer corners, then finish with a sharp, upward flick (you can even use a piece of tape below to achieve the straightest edge). Once your black eyeliner is perfectly applied, take the look a step further by tracing it with highly pigmented, white liquid liner. The results will make any eye color dramatically pop.

2. Try an upturned wing

This upturned wing looks good on everyone. | iStock.com/malyugin

Many women feel comfortable attempting a subtle, minimal cat eye, but this more dramatic variation is far more striking and clearly worth attempting! This look will require plenty of practice with a steady hand, or you can use an eyeliner stencil to achieve a perfectly straight line. Once you master this upturned wing, your eyes will look bigger, brighter and more pronounced.

3. Add glitter fallout

A little glitter never hurts. | iStock.com/Stephanie_Zieber

Are you on the hunt for a new party beauty look? If so, it’s time to add some sparkle to your eyes. This stunning design can easily standalone, or you can pair it with a bold, red lip. The key is to ensure you’re using the correct products. If you have a favorite metallic eye shadow, you can apply it directly to the corners of your eyes, making sure to carefully fade the color as you extend outwards. If you want to apply loose glitter, first dip your makeup brush into MAC’s Mixing Medium, which acts as a safe skin adhesive.

4. Line with bold colors

Try a bright color next time. | iStock.com/QueenMargo

It’s easy to get stuck in the same old makeup routine we’ve been using for years, but sometimes you need to take a risk and mix things up. To get this look, choose your favorite bright color and fully line your upper lid with a thick, creamy eyeliner stick. You can stop at the corner of your eyes, or carry on with a sassy, upward flick.

5. Line your entire rim

Go for this bold look. | iStock.com/malyugin

This bold eyeliner look is the perfect way to feel powerful, confident, and sexy. But to avoid looking like a raccoon, it’s best to create a color gradient. Start with gunmetal-grey or silver at the inner corners of your eyes, and gradually darken to black until you’ve reached the outer corners. We guarantee you’ll feel like you can take on the world with this fierce design.

6. Line your bottom lashes only

Try applying your liner on the bottom. | iStock.com/DragonImages

One of the easiest ways to make your eye color appear brighter is to line your upper lid in black. However, you may not realize that lining only the bottom has an equally interesting effect. By only lining your bottom lashes, you can widen and add depth to your eyes. Just be careful not to go too heavy on the black liner, as this can make your eyes appear droopy and aged. Instead, test out a navy blue, eggplant, or brown liner to create a thin, more dimensional lower-lash line.